Controversial Nigerian street singer, Habeeb Okikiola popularly known as Portable has been arrested by operatives of Kwara state police command.
Gatekeepers News reports that the singer was arrest on Saturday over allegations of criminal defamation, threat to life, incitement, and character assassination against the Fuji musician, Saheed Osupa.
Osupa had filed a petition accusing Portable of using abusive and insulting language that could incite violence and damage his reputation.
The petition came after Portable’s song was taken down from Apple Music and Spotify over copyright infringement issues in March.
Portable had incorporated a line closely associated with Osupa’s style, prompting Osupa’s team to file a formal complaint.
In response, the singer called out Osupa, using offensive terms such as “big for nothing,” which drew criticism across social media.
Portable later apologised to Osupa, saying his earlier outburst was caused by a loss of temper.
Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, Kwara state police spokesman, announced the singer’s arrest in a statement On Sunday.
Adeyemi said he was taken to Ilorin for further investigation, adding that his statement was recorded in the presence of legal representatives from both parties, and he is currently in custody awaiting court proceedings.
The statement reads, “The Kwara State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that following a petition received from one Mr. Okunola Saheed, popularly known as “Osupa,” against Mr. Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, also known in the entertainment industry as “Portable”.”
“Police detectives of Kwara Command have taken lawful steps in line with due process to investigate the allegations.”
“The petition borders on serious allegations which includes criminal defamation, threat to life, incitement, character assassination, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace and the use of abusive and insulting words.”
‘’In view of the weight of these allegations and the supporting evidence presented, the command secured a valid arrest warrant from a Magistrate Court sitting in Ilorin.”
“Acting on this warrant, operatives from the command proceeded to Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday, 13th April 2025, where the suspect was apprehended at about 19:25hrs. He was immediately brought to Ilorin for further investigations.”
“Upon his arrival, the suspect’s statement was taken in the presence of legal representatives from both parties.”
